Steve Law insists Cardiff RFC will be going 'hell for leather' in their bid for the Indigo Group Premiership title as they prepare to host Merthyr in the final game of the season this evening.
A bonus point victory for the Blue and Blacks at the Arms Park will see them crowned Champions, which seemed inconceivable a few short weeks ago given the 12-point lead Newport held at the top of the table.
However a series of impressive performances, including claiming maximum points over their last three fixtures, has seen the Rags clawing themselves back into contention, setting up a dramatic finale in the capital this evening.
Having led the league table before the initial pandemic lockdown in 2020, Law has added motivation for Cardiff to lift their first league title since 2009.
The Rags' head coach said: “This is undoubtedly the biggest club game in Wales this season. A victory won’t be enough for us, we need a bonus point win.
“If we can get all five points we’ll be crowned champions which would be a fantastic achievement. We’ve had a good chat this week, and we will be going hell for leather to get all five points.
“We’ve worked really hard to put ourselves back into a position where we can win the league. There’s a real positive mood in camp, and a determination to make the most of this opportunity so we are looking forward to tonight’s game especially as there is expecting to be a big crowd at the Arms Park.”
The Blue and Blacks are boosted by the return of Jacob Beetham and Mason Grady in midfield, with the duo having regularly trained with the first team at Cardiff Arms Park. Jason Harries and Dan Fish add further experience into the backline, with a total of six current academy players involved in the matchday 23.
But Law is expecting a difficult challenge against a robust Merthyr side, who will be desperate to spoil the party in the capital.
“We certainly won’t be underestimating Merthyr because they’ve already beaten us twice this season,” said Law.
“We are expecting a very physical challenge, and we expect them to be very direct. Make no bones about it they will want to come here, and spoil our party.
“Dale McIntosh is leaving them at the end of the season, and while they have one game left against Aberavon next week, they will be motivated to send him out on a high. At the end of the day it’s a local derby, and historically form can go out of the window in games like this.
“Merthyr haven’t hit the heights of previous seasons, but if you look at their side on paper they have a number of top quality players who we are wary of. I am confident though that if we play our game, we can come out on top.
“We are well aware that Cardiff always have a target on their backs. Whenever we play any side it’s a tough game for us because everyone is desperate to knock us off our perch.”